A quiet place: When the world is silent
“A Quiet Place: Day One,” directed by Michael Sarnoski, marks the next chapter in the popular horror franchise that has captivated audiences around the world. This prequel takes viewers back to those terrifying first days when the Death Angels descended on Earth, hunting anything that makes sound. Set in the bustling metropolis of New York City, a place known for its constant noise and activity, the film explores how millions of people react when faced with sudden, dead silence. dead.
The central character of this part is Sam, portrayed by Lupita Nyong’o, a terminally ill woman battling cancer. Despite the dire prognosis, Sam’s will to survive flares up when she faces monstrous creatures. Her story is not only one of survival against an otherworldly threat but also of an internal battle between despair and the human instinct to live. The film follows her desperate journey through a city now dominated by magical creatures, as she must remain silent to avoid being hunted by the mysterious creatures.
Tension in silence
Like its predecessors, “A Quiet Place: Day One” uses silence as a powerful storytelling tool, increasing the film’s suspense and creating a tense atmosphere. The slightest noise—whether it’s footsteps, breathing, or the creaking of floorboards—can signal certain death, leaving viewers unable to look away. Director Michael Sarnoski skillfully uses silence to immerse the audience, forcing them to focus on every visual cue and every subtle movement of the character.
New York City, often called “the city that never sleeps”, turns into a cold wasteland. The contrast between its previously vibrant energy and the eerie, deadly quiet is striking, giving a new dimension to the horror. Deserted streets, burned-out buildings, and flooded subway stations contribute to the sense of doom, enhancing the film’s post-apocalyptic feel.
Character and survival
Unlike previous films, where the Abbott family learned to adapt by living in the wilderness and using sign language, “A Quiet Place: Day One” presents a chaotic first encounter. riot with monsters. People, unprepared and unaware of the threat, were mercilessly hunted down as soon as they made a sound. The film’s depiction of this confusion and fear is a stark reminder of how unprepared humanity would be in such a sudden disaster.
Sam’s journey is both physical and emotional. She is initially portrayed as a woman in a workhouse, resigned to her fate, with her only companion being her beloved cat, Frodo. In a difficult situation when the world was in ruins, Sam wanted to go to his favorite pizza shop to eat, because he no longer had any motivation to live. Her determination to survive grows when she meets Eric, a British law student played by Joseph Quinn. Their relationship, built on quiet communication and mutual trust, is at the heart of the film’s emotional core. Eric’s concern for Sam, shown in the scene where he risks his life to find her painkillers, deepens their relationship and brings warmth to an otherwise bleak story.
When they first met, Eric shyly followed her, despite her discomfort. Unable to talk, the two must understand each other through their eyes to overcome danger. Eric’s concern for the main character makes the film’s atmosphere warm, typically in the scene where he risks his life to find painkillers for Sam. Touched by friendship, Sam gradually bravely faced the monster, determined to win his life.
A message of courage and hope
Although the film is primarily about survival, it also carries an uplifting message of courage and hope in the darkest of times. Sam’s journey from despair to determination is a reflection of the human spirit’s ability to find strength even when all seems lost. Her friendship with Eric serves as a reminder that even in the most dire of circumstances, compassion and friendship can still provide a glimmer of hope.
Outstanding performance
Lupita Nyong’o and Joseph Quinn deliver standout performances, anchoring the film with their emotional depth and on-screen chemistry. Nyong’o, known for his work on “12 Years a Slave” and “Us,” portrays Sam’s vulnerability and strength with grace. Her ability to convey fear, pain and resilience without words is remarkable, capturing the essence of her character’s internal struggle. Meanwhile, Quinn shines as Eric, a character who exudes quiet courage, showing affection and loyalty through actions rather than words. His role complements Nyong’o’s, providing the driving force behind the film’s emotional heart.
Critics have praised A Quiet Place: Day One for its ability to maintain the tension and suspense that made the original films successful. Digital Spy called it “Another great entry in the franchise, delivering both tense and surprising scenes”. While Total Film noted its distinctive emotional tone compared to previous films. However, some have pointed out that the script lacks originality, with a predictable plot and lack of surprises. The origin of the monsters and the reason they came to Earth have not been specifically revealed. The interaction between the two main characters has not been pushed to a climax, causing the film’s storyline to lack emphasis.
Despite these criticisms, “A Quiet Place: Day One” successfully expands the series’ universe, delivering both familiar thrills and fresh ones. The film reminds audiences that even in the most horrifying circumstances, the will to survive and the power of human connection can still shine through.
Like its predecessors, “A Quiet Place: Day One” continues to push the boundaries of horror by focusing on what is left unsaid, making silence itself the scariest force.
After the success of the first part in 2018 (earning 340 million USD), director John Krasinski continued to collaborate with his wife – star Emily Blunt – in A Quiet Place Part II (2021). The character Evelyn and her children continue to fight for survival, while realizing that there are many dangers other than monsters. The work received many positive reviews from critics, reaching more than 297 million USD amid the pandemic.
